Pregnancy is an exciting time, filled with hopes and dreams for the future. Of course, many expectant mothers are also thinking about skincare, including which products can be used safely while nursing. According to the Food and Drug Administration, most products labelled as over-the-counter (OTC) or as safe for “pregnancy” are safe for breastfeeding when applied as directed. However, you should always check with your physician if you have questions or concerns.
When pregnant, your focus shifts to the comfort of your baby. You want to make sure that he or she is safe and comfortable at all times. But while you’re taking care of your baby, you also need to take care of your skin. Pregnancy can trigger a slew of skin problems, including acne, dryness, and sensitive skin. Also, if you have issues with acne, you may worry about getting it even worse. Finding skincare products that are truly safe to use during pregnancy can be a challenge.
Top skincare ingredients to avoid in pregnancy
Retinoids
Retinoids are used to help improve wrinkles and fine lines and are a common ingredient in anti-ageing products. However, there are additional reasons to avoid retinoids during pregnancy. They increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, which may cause premature ageing and increase your risk of skin cancer. Retinoids can also cause a wide range of side effects, from skin inflammation to birth defects. It’s best to use retinoid products only under the supervision of a doctor.
Hydroquinone
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns pregnant women to avoid hydroquinone, a skin-lightening ingredient that’s found in many over-the-counter skin-whitening products. According to the FDA, hydroquinone can pass through the placenta and could result in developmental problems in fetuses.
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals found in many personal care products. They are used to make plastic flexible, tough, and more durable. They are also used in fragrances, plastics, and nail polishes. In cosmetics, they can be found in perfumes, hairspray, makeup, and nail polish. Most phthalates are benign and have been studied, but some are unsafe during pregnancy.
Formaldehyde
Pregnant women shouldn’t use any products that contain formaldehyde, specifically, products containing formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRP). These preservatives irritate the skin, eyes, and nose, and asthma attacks. The FRPs can also damage the developing nervous system of the fetus, and they’re also linked to allergies, asthma, and other breathing and skin irritations in infants and children.
Chemical sunscreens
While pregnant, you’ll want to take extra care of what you put on your skin. One of the biggest things to avoid is chemical sunscreens. Many people don’t know that they are hormone-disrupting agents, which can change the hormones in our bodies. This can lead to thyroid issues, infertility, and hormone imbalances. So if you’re pregnant, try switching to physical sunscreen, or wearing a hat.
Skin-Care Products That Are Safe to Use While Pregnant or Nursing
Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum Brightening Skin Corrector
Your skin is as important to your appearance as your clothing, so it’s important to take care of it. Get pampered with Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum Brightening Skin Corrector, which hydrates, brightens and balances skin complexion. The skin-perfecting formula enhances elasticity and provides skin with a smooth, radiant look. It contains skin-improving ingredients such as vitamin C, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, making it an excellent choice for skincare for pregnant.
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Sunscreen SPF 50+
Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a teaching hospital-approved sunscreen. Actinica uses natural mineral filters to reflect 98% of UVB rays. The active ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which protect the skin while moisturising to reduce dry patches and burning. The sunscreen smells like oranges and is water-resistant for 40 minutes.
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension of 10%
When you’re pregnant or nursing, you don’t want to have to say goodbye to your daily skin-care routine, and you don’t want to worry about putting your baby at any risk. But you need something that’s safe, too. Luckily, The Ordinary Azelaic acid suspension of 10% is just the thing you’ve been looking for. This skin-care product contains only 10% azelaic acid, which is considered a “gentle” acid with gentle exfoliating properties.
Paula’s Choice Clear Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide
Whether you’re trying to whittle away pregnancy weight or you’re nursing a newborn, skin conditions can be a daily battle. Thankfully, there are plenty of effective and safe skincare options available, no matter what stage of motherhood you’re in. Paula’s Choice Clear Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide is a lightweight glycolic and salicylic acid moisturizer that’s gentle enough to use twice a day, even on your most sensitive skin. The treatment’s non-comedogenic formula won’t clog your pores, while the 2.5% benzoyl peroxide works to protect from bacteria.
